California Senator Dianne Feinstein introduced legislation that would mandate a certification that all food items for sale are pathogen-free.

The measure amends the Poultry Products Inspection Act, the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act and will be a matter for the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.

In the wake of frightening and embarrassing food recalls involving salmonella, e. Coli and botulism, the new legislation would require all food processors to test their ingredients and finished products before they reach retail aisles.

It would also force ground beef processors to name every cut of meat in the final product as an added measure to boost traceability. Furthermore, it would mandate disclosure of colorings and any other synthetics added for flavor.

According to Senator Feinstein: "Serious reform is needed. This bill would require companies that process any kind of food, from ground beef to frozen pot pies, to test their finished products and their ingredients to make sure that they are safe to eat and pathogen free."

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